2025 BUYER'S GUIDE: The Most Affordable Rod And Reel Combos For Bass Fishing!

It's amazing how nice these rods and reels are! The "mid priced" rod and reel category has experienced huge shake ups this year in both quality and price.  We've branched out across rod and reel brands and have found some gems. Let's check them out!

For the guy who wants to experience next–level sensitivity, you can grab a durable budget reel and pair it to a high end rod and still fit the budget. For the guy who wants to cast a mile, you can invest in a higher end reel and pair it to a durable rod. For those that prefer more affordable rods and reels, refer to our other buyer's guides linked below. If you prefer high end gear, stick with us every day as we continue climbing the ladder of high end tackle!

Below you'll find links to the exact rod and reel combos in the video. We've included our favorite models from each product line. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

SPINNING COMBOS (lowest to Highest)...

Rod– Shimano Intenza: https://bit.ly/2s7kaQn

Favorite Models: 7' Medium Light, 7'4" Medium Light

Reel– Shimano Miravel: https://bit.ly/3QZnwL5

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod– St. Croix Victory: https://bit.ly/2RPMkfV

Favorite Models: 6'10" Medium Light, 7'1" Medium

Reel– Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT: https://bit.ly/4oesPrk

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod– Dobyns Sierra: https://bit.ly/2EyotZU

Favorite Models: 6'9" Medium Light, 7' Light, 7' Medium

Reel– Shimano Ultegra: https://bit.ly/2nfApml

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod– Dobyns Champion XP: https://bit.ly/2j7EBXD

Favorite Models: 7' Medium Light, 7'6" Medium

Reel– Shimano Vanford FA: https://bit.ly/3WAPNO1

Favorite Size: 2500

CASTING COMBOS (lowest to Highest)...

Rod– Shimano Intenza: https://bit.ly/2QADLTq

Favorite Models: 6'10" MH, 7'2" Medium

Reel– Shimano SLX 70 MGL: https://bit.ly/3gIUCgJ

Favorite Speed: 7.2:1

Rod– Megabass Levante: https://bit.ly/2OSVNwH

Favorite Models: Flat Side Special, Braillist, EMTF

Reel– Daiwa Tatula SV TW: https://bit.ly/3ZcBbCZ

Favorite Speed: 7.1:1

Rod– Shimano Zodias: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Favorite Models: 7' MH, 7'5" MH, 7'5" Heavy

Reel– Shimano Curado 150 M: https://bit.ly/4odTDs7

Favorite Speed: 7.4:1

Rod– Fenwick Elite: https://bit.ly/3MyC6tb

Favorite Models: 7'3" MH, 7'1" Medium

Reel– Abu Garcia Revo SX: https://bit.ly/40nsz0i

Favorite Speed: 7.3:1

SWIMBAIT COMBOS...

Rod– Fenwick Elite: https://bit.ly/3MyC6tb

Model: 7'8" Medium Heavy Fast

Reel– Abu Garcia Beast 200: https://bit.ly/3LcKu4f

Rod– Shimano Zodias 7'9" Heavy: https://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Reel– Shimano Curado 300HG: https://bit.ly/2HbZ3E4

BFS COMBOS...

Rod– Cashion Element Z2: https://bit.ly/48w69eC

Model: 6'10" Medium Light

Reel– Shimano Curado BFS: https://bit.ly/2QGRVF2

Rod– Shimano Curado BFS: https://bit.ly/2gUWTft

Model: 6'8" Light Fast

Reel– Shimano Curado BFS: https://bit.ly/2QGRVF2

WANT TACTICALBASSIN GEAR??

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

If you plan to do any shopping, using these affiliate links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won't be able to even see a difference but they'll know you're one of us!

2025 BUYER'S GUIDE: Best Budget Baller Rod And Reel Combos!

Today we're covering the best budget-friendly rods and reels for bass fishing! If you're looking for quality gear to take your fishing to the next level, this is for you! We've completely revamped the Buyer's Guide Series this year so you may be surprised by many of these pairings.

The goal of today's video is to find quality gear at the best price. The 'budget" category is often mistaken for "beginner" gear, and this couldn't be farther from the truth. There are price-conscious anglers at every skill level and we've taken each of them into consideration. If you're looking to get the most for your money, this is for you! Many of these rods and reels outperform the high end gear from just a few years ago.

Below you'll find links to the exact rod and reel combos in today's video. We've included our favorite models from each product line and our favorite reel sizes and speeds for each combo. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

BUDGET CASTING COMBOS (In Order Of Price)...

Rod #1 – Cashion Element Z2: https://bit.ly/48w69eC

Favorite Models: 6'9" Medium, 7' Medium Heavy, 7'3" Heavy Fast

Reel– Shimano SLX 150 XT: https://bit.ly/2BRTYL8

Favorite Speed: 7.2:1

Rod #2 – St. Croix Black Bass: https://bit.ly/4cX7VHL

Favorite Models: 6'8" Medium, 7'1" medium Heavy, 7'4" Heavy

Reel– Seviin GF: https://bit.ly/3qa2SQZ

Favorite Speed: 7.3:1

Rod #3 – Dobyns Fury: https://bit.ly/2bGvlVV

Favorite Models: 7' Medium Heavy, 7'6" Medium Heavy

Reel– Daiwa Fuego CT: https://bit.ly/35hugfH

Favorite Speed: 7.3:1

BUDGET SPINNING COMBOS (In Order Of Price)...

Rod #1 – St. Croix Black Bass: https://bit.ly/4diwkqT

Favorite Models: 6'10" Medium Light, 7'3" Medium

Reel– Shimano Miravel: https://bit.ly/3QZnwL5

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod #2 – Dobyns Fury: https://bit.ly/2e7HZPF

Favorite Models: 7' Medium Light, 7' Medium

Reel– Shimano Ultegra: https://bit.ly/3YsflNS

Favorite Size: 2500

Rod #3 – Fenwick HMG: https://bit.ly/4cXBAjD

Favorite Models: 6'10" Medium, 7'1" Medium

Reel– Daiwa Fuego LT: https://bit.ly/2yDmdtQ

Favorite Size: 2500

BUDGET BFS COMBO...

Rod– Cashion Element Z2: https://bit.ly/48w69eC

Model: 6'10" Medium Light

Reel– Ark Gravity BFS: https://bit.ly/3UtgXnY

Favorite Speed: 7.1:1

BUDGET SWIMBAIT COMBO...

Rod– Shimano SLX A Swimbait: https://bit.ly/3QbMjvs

Model: 7'8" Heavy

Reel– Shimano Cardiff A 300: https://bit.ly/2cvhtMO

PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

•Best Jigs– https://youtu.be/KVy_HzsNdv4

•Best Chatterbaits– https://youtu.be/NaLpakzewTs

•Best Spinnerbaits/A Rigs– https://youtu.be/ipLAgQwf_t0

•Best Fishing Rods– https://youtu.be/d4sEMLCcETs

•Best Entry Level Combos– https://youtu.be/4O2ewrZzuJw

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

2025 BUYER'S GUIDE SERIES: Chatterbaits, Bladed Jigs, and Best Chatterbait Trailers!

Let's Talk Chatterbait Fishing! The best baits, trailers, and equipment for Bladed Jig Fishing all in one place! Chatterbaits continue to be one of the hottest trends in bass fishing and there's no sign of slowing! From heavy cover to BFS, here are the baits and trailers you should be using!

New baits and trailers hit the market every year and the category continues to grow. The chatterbait, or bladed jig, comes in dozens of versions but there are only a few that stand out from the crowd. The JackHammer leads the pack but it's not alone, there are a few key baits you should consider adding to your line up this year. When it comes to trailers, you have a ton of options! We've narrowed it down, and can show you exactly when to throw each style.

Below you'll find links to the baits and gear in the order we discussed them. We've included our favorite sizes, weights, and colors for each and all the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of the items.

PREVIOUS BUYER'S GUIDES...

Buyer's Guide: Best Jigs And Jig Trailers– https://youtu.be/KVy_HzsNdv4

FULL SIZE CHATTERBAITS...

•ZMan EverGreen JackHammer (1/2 oz): http://bit.ly/2popvj6

Colors: Green Pumpkin Shad, Bruised Green Pumpkin

•ZMan Elite Evo Chatterbait (1/2 oz): https://bit.ly/3OAGB8y

Colors: Bama Bream, Electric Shad, Glitter Bomb

•ZMan TUNGSTEN Elite Evo Chatterbait (1/2 oz): https://bit.ly/3YkW2Hd

Colors: Bama Bream, Electric Shad, Glitter Bomb

FINESSE CHATTERBAITS...

•Zman Baby Jack Chatterbait (1/2 oz): https://bit.ly/4jvWTMx

Colors: Green Pumpkin Shad, Brett's Bluegill

•Zman Elite Evo Mini Max (3/8 – 1/2 oz): https://bit.ly/3EahpTT

Colors: Bama Bream, Electric Shad, Glitter Bomb

•Zman Micro Max Chatterbait (1/4 oz): https://bit.ly/4odPVyC

Colors: Bluegill, Gizzard Shad, Spot Remover

FULL SIZE CHATTERBAIT TRAILERS...

Pintail– Hog Farmer Spunk Shad: http://bit.ly/2UFkCD7

Size: 4.5" –  5.5"

Colors: Electric Shad, Ghost Minnow, Sexy Shad

Profile– Zman ChatterShad: https://bit.ly/4jPaGOX

Size: 4.5"

Colors: Electric Shad, Bad Shad, The Deal

Profile– Big Bite Baits Kamikaze Swimon: https://bit.ly/2NkSdPV

Size: 4.25"

Colors: Smokey Gold, Hematoma, Green Pumpkin Chartreuse

Paddletail– Yamamoto Kickin Zako: https://bit.ly/3fPRQsF

Colors: Zako, Green pumpkin White Lam, Sexy Shad

Craw– Xzone 4" Muscle Back Craw: https://bit.ly/43DZXOQ

Colors: Green Pumpkin Black, Black Blue Flake

FINESSE CHATTERBAIT TRAILERS...

•Hog Farmer 4" Stroll Shad: https://bit.ly/3ALs7OI

Colors: Electric Shad, Ghost Minnow, Green Shad

•Zman 3.5" Chattershad: https://bit.ly/4jPaGOX

Colors: Electric Shad, Bad Shad, The Deal

•Yamamoto 3" Zako: https://bit.ly/2fKmSRp

Colors: Pro Blue, Sexy Shad, Blue Craw

ALL AROUND CHATTERBAIT COMBO...

Rod– G Loomis GLX 7'3" Medium Fast: https://bit.ly/3TPrt9W

Reel– Shimano Curado 70 MGL: https://bit.ly/2apmDJt

Sufix 832 Braid (40 lb): https://bit.ly/2ae93Ji

leader– Sufix Advance Green Mono (14 lb): https://bit.ly/3GJEUix

HIGH END CHATTERBAIT COMBO...

Rod– Megabass P5 Destroyer "Daemos": https://bit.ly/3wHoXpD

Model: 7'2" Medium+

Reel– Shimano Metanium MGL (HG): https://bit.ly/2ezIBfB

Line– Line– Sufix 131 Braid (40 lb): https://bit.ly/314VoyF

Leader– Sufix Advance Mono (17 lb): https://bit.ly/3GJEUix

BUDGET CHATTERBAIT COMBO...

Rod– Shimano SLX 6'10" Medium Heavy: https://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Reel– Shimano SLX XT (HG): https://bit.ly/2BRTYL8

Line– Seaguar Red Label (20 lb): https://bit.ly/2LOVEwA

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz

2025 BUYER'S GUIDE! Jig Fishing For Bass: Best Jigs, Trailers, and Equipment!

Today begins our 2025 Buyer's Guide series! There will be new videos every day, 7 days a week, for the next few weeks! Today's video is all about jig fishing. These are the best swim jigs, flipping jigs, football jigs and micro jigs from around the bass fishing industry! We're exploring how head shapes and hook sizes impact the baits. We're also covering our favorite jig trailers by style, as well as the rods we rely on to fish them effectively.

Jig fishing is a core bass fishing technique. If you're not comfortable catching bass with jigs, you still have room to grow as an angler. Luckily, the technique is simple! You don't need every jig style, typically one or two jigs will cover all the situations you'll face on your lake. Once you've chosen those, pair with the appropriate trailer options, and you're ready to start catching fish!

Below you'll find links to the exact jigs and trailers we discussed in the video. We've included our favorites sizes and colors for each category, as well as the rods we use to fish them. All the links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item.

IF YOU COULD ONLY HAVE ONE...

•Dirty Jigs Pitchin Jig: http://bit.ly/2amL3of

Size: 1/2 oz

Colors: The Go To, Green Pumpkin Craw

•Dirty Jigs Compact Pitchin Jig: http://bit.ly/2hAIyCV

Size: 1/2 oz

Color: The Go To, Green Pumpkin Craw

BEAST COAST JIG...

•Beast Coast Sniper Finesse Jig: https://bit.ly/4gFj0yq

Size: 3/8 – 1/2 oz

Colors: MB Sexy Melon, Dirt Bag

FLIPPING JIGS...

•No Jack Flippin Jig: http://bit.ly/2fx8YBI

Size: 5/8 oz

Color: Hematoma, Molting Craw, The Go To

•Weekender Flipping Jig: https://bit.ly/48JxMDG

Size: 3/8 oz

Color: The Go To, Okeechobee 420, Super Matt Brown

FINESSE FOOTBALL AND FINESSE JIGS...

•Dirty Jigs Finesse Football: http://bit.ly/2d2apsm

Favorite Size: 1/2 oz

Colors: Supermatt Brown, Canterbury Craw, Alabama Craw

•Dirty Jigs Finesse Jig: https://bit.ly/2eJinXo

Favorite Size: 3/8 oz

Colors: The Go To, Alabama Craw

MICRO JIGS...

•Great Lakes Finesse Matte Finesse Jig: https://bit.ly/3Yj41mp

Size: 3/16 oz

Colors: Matte Green Pumpkin Black, Matte Black Brown

•MissileJigs Micro Football Jig: https://bit.ly/3osY6wA

Size: 1/4 – 3/8 oz

Colors: Green Pumpkin, Dill Pickle

SWIM JIGS...

Jig– MissileBaits Mini Swim Jig (5/16 oz): https://bit.ly/3SdHVOF

Colors: Shad Flash, Bruiser, BrewGill

Trailer– Xzone 3.5 Swammer: http://bit.ly/2PogV0q

Colors: Electric Shad, 309

Jig– Dirty Jigs Compact Swim Jig (3/8 oz): https://bit.ly/43OSFY1

Color: Tactical Shad, Blue Glimmer, Alabama Bream

Trailer– Storm 3.5 Largo Shad: https://bit.ly/3vxP0NB

Colors: Albino Shad, Sexy Shad

Jig– California Swim Jig (3/4 oz): http://bit.ly/2auXfmx

Color: Tactical Shad, Alabama Bream, Crappie

Trailer– River2Sea D Walker 120: http://bit.ly/2NwqBmz

Color: Shamrock Shad, PB Red

PITCHING AND FLIPPING JIG TRAILERS...

•Xzone Muscle Back Craw: https://bit.ly/43DZXOQ

Sizes: 4" and 3.25"

Colors: Green Pumpkin, Watermelon Red Flake

FOOTBALL, FINESSE, AND MICRO JIG TRAILERS...

•Yamamoto 5" Double Tail Grub: https://bit.ly/2db9w1p

Colors: Green Pumpkin Black, Green Pumpkin Purp Cop Flake

•Xzone Stealth Finesse Craw: https://bit.ly/4ckYPmX

Colors: Grass Craw, Tilapia

•ZMan TRD Bugz: https://bit.ly/2oiavEE

Colors: Green Pumpkin, Sprayed Grass

•Damiki 4" Air Craw: https://bit.ly/3AvRsZJ

Colors: Green Pumpkin, Green Pumpkin Purple

HULA GRUBS...

•Yamamoto 2.5" Hula Grub: https://bit.ly/497jz1m

Colors: Green Pumpkin Purple And Copper

•Yamamoto 5" Hula Grub: https://bit.ly/2d7SpgG

Colors: Green Pumpkin Blk, Cinnamon Black Purple

HIGH END JIG COMBO...

Rod– Dobyns Xtasy 755: https://bit.ly/36fIHCg

Model: 7'5" Mag Heavy

Reel– Abu Garcia Zenon X: https://bit.ly/4klsOju

Line– Sufix 832 Braid (50 lb): https://bit.ly/2ae93Ji

Leader– Sufix Advance Mono (15 lb): https://bit.ly/3GJEUix

ALL AROUND JIG COMBO...

Rod– Shimano Expride B 7'4" Heavy: https://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Reel– Shimano Curado 150 M (HG): https://bit.ly/4odTDs7

Line– Sufix 832 Braid (50 lb): https://bit.ly/2ae93Ji

Leader– Sufix Advance Mono (15 lb): https://bit.ly/3GJEUix

FINESSE FOOTBALL JIG COMBO...

Rod– G Loomis NRX+ 844C MBR (7' Heavy): https://bit.ly/2SuZG15

Reel– Shimano Metanium MGL (HG): http://bit.ly/2ezIBfB

Line– Sufix 131 Braid (40 lb): https://bit.ly/314VoyF

Leader– Seaguar Gold Label (15 lb): https://bit.ly/3UqrUbi

BUDGET JIG COMBO...

Rod– Dobyns Maverick 735C: https://bit.ly/3ncP1nX

Model: 7'3" Heavy

Reel– Shimano SLX XT (HG): https://bit.ly/3YgnWE8

Line– Sunline Super FC (15 lb): https://bit.ly/2p7fxju

TACTICALBASSIN LURE DESIGNS (AND APPAREL)

We have a variety of custom lure designs and apparel available! Everything from Swimbaits and crankbaits, to apparel and merch! See it here…

•TacticalBassin Apparel and Merch: https://bit.ly/3ZxEI0z

•TacticalBassin Lure Designs: http://bit.ly/38YpPIz